Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem are prominent figures in the biblical narrative of Nehemiah, particularly in the context of the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem. Their opposition to Nehemiah's efforts is a significant theme in the Book of Nehemiah, highlighting the challenges faced by the Jewish community during the post-exilic period.

Sanballat

Sanballat is identified as a Horonite, likely indicating his origin from Beth-Horon, a town in the region of Samaria. He is often referred to as a governor or leader in Samaria, and his opposition to Nehemiah is both political and personal. Sanballat's hostility is first mentioned in Nehemiah 2:10, where it is noted that he was displeased with Nehemiah's mission to seek the welfare of the Israelites: "When Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite official heard about this, they were deeply disturbed that someone had come to seek the well-being of the Israelites" (Nehemiah 2:10).

Sanballat's opposition escalates as the rebuilding progresses. He mocks and ridicules the Jews, attempting to undermine their morale (Nehemiah 4:1-3). Despite his efforts, Nehemiah remains steadfast, praying for strength and continuing the work. Sanballat's tactics include attempts to lure Nehemiah into a trap, as seen in Nehemiah 6:2: "Sanballat and Geshem sent me this message: 'Come, let us meet together in one of the villages on the plain of Ono.' But they were planning to harm me" (Nehemiah 6:2).

Tobiah

Tobiah is described as an Ammonite official, and like Sanballat, he is deeply disturbed by Nehemiah's mission. Tobiah's opposition is characterized by mockery and attempts to intimidate the Jewish builders. In Nehemiah 4:3, Tobiah derides the efforts of the Jews, saying, "Even if a fox were to climb up on it, he would break down their wall of stones!" (Nehemiah 4:3).

Tobiah's influence extends into the Jewish community, as he has familial ties with some of the nobles of Judah, which complicates Nehemiah's efforts. In Nehemiah 6:17-19, it is revealed that many in Judah were bound to Tobiah by oath, and they reported Nehemiah's words to him, while Tobiah sent letters to intimidate Nehemiah.

Geshem

Geshem, also known as Gashmu, is identified as an Arab leader. He joins Sanballat and Tobiah in their opposition to Nehemiah. Geshem's involvement is noted in Nehemiah 2:19, where he, along with Sanballat and Tobiah, mocks and accuses Nehemiah of rebelling against the king: "But when Sanballat the Horonite, Tobiah the Ammonite official, and Geshem the Arab heard about this, they mocked and despised us, saying, 'What is this you are doing? Are you rebelling against the king?'" (Nehemiah 2:19).

Geshem's role, while less prominent than that of Sanballat and Tobiah, is significant in the coalition against Nehemiah. His participation underscores the regional opposition to the restoration of Jerusalem's walls and the reestablishment of the Jewish community.

Significance

The opposition of Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem serves as a narrative device to highlight the perseverance and faith of Nehemiah and the Jewish people. Their resistance is emblematic of the broader challenges faced by the Israelites in reestablishing their identity and community in the face of external threats. The account of these adversaries in the Book of Nehemiah underscores themes of faith, leadership, and divine providence, as Nehemiah relies on prayer and strategic action to overcome their schemes and complete the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls.